Job Title: Finance and Operations Officer

Location: Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Reports to: Executive Director

Employment Type: Fixed Term

     About DIGNITY Kwanza

Dignity Kwanza – Community Solutions (DIGNITY Kwanza) is Non-Governmental Organization registered in Tanzania that aims to safeguard and promote the human dignity of people affected by displacement, people at risk of statelessness, and vulnerable women, children, and youth to attain their social and economic development. Through its integrated approach that combines advocacy, legal aid, and community empowerment and support, DIGNITY Kwanza contributes to the creation of conditions and opportunities for its population of concern to enjoy rights, live with dignity, attain social and economic growth and participate in the search for lasting solutions to their needs and the overall nation-building.

     Position Summary/ Description

The Finance and Operations Officer (FAO) is responsible for overseeing and managing all DIGNITY Kwanza’s financial and operations functions, ensuring compliance with financial regulations, coordinating and improving operational processes, managing resources, and working with the management to provide strategic financial and operations guidance to help the organization achieve its mission. The role requires a deep understanding of non-profit financial and non-financial resource management, including budgeting, forecasting, grant management, and financial reporting. The FAO will work closely with the Management Team and the external stakeholders to ensure DIGNITY Kwanza’s financial health and sustainability. Key responsibilities include developing and implementing financial and operations policies, managing donor funds, preparing financial statements, conducting financial analysis and managing resources. The successful candidate will have strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and the ability to communicate complex financial information to non-financial stakeholders. This is a critical role that requires a proactive approach to problem-solving, confidentiality and a commitment to the values of DIGNITY Kwanza.

 Key Responsibilities

1. Financial Management, Accounting, and Reporting

• Prepare and manage budgets, forecasts, and financial plans, in collaboration with the management team.
• Maintain and improve internal financial controls, policies and procedures.
• Ensure compliance with financial regulations and standards.
• Manage donor funds and ensure compliance with grant requirements.
• Prepare and present financial statements and reports
• Ensure timely and accurate financial reporting to management, donors and stakeholders
• Conduct financial analysis to support decision-making
• Collaborate with the management to develop financial strategies
• Coordinate audits and manage relationships with external auditors
• Reconcile bank statements, monitor cash flow and manage risks
• Provide financial training, information, tools and support to the program team and other staff
• Manage accounts payable and receivable processes · Oversee payroll and benefits administration.
• Oversee all financial transactions and maintain accurate and up-to-date records · Develop and monitor internal controls to safeguard assets ·    Support fundraising efforts with financial data and analysis.
• Manage financial aspects of contracts and agreements
• Supervise and mentor finance, accounting, operations and administration staff, volunteers and interns
• Stay updated on financial trends and best practices in the NGO and non-profit sector.
• Assist in the development of organisational budgets and financial plans
• Ensure accurate and timely posting of transactions and general ledger maintenance.
• Ensure that petty cash is managed per organisational policies and practices.

2. Operational Management

• Coordinate the development, implementation, and refining of operational policies, processes, and procedures to enhance efficiency and support organizational goals.
• Manage the allocation of resources, including facilities, equipment, and technology, to support operational needs.
• Create and monitor operational budgets, ensuring cost-effective use of resources.
• Coordinate with HR on staffing needs, training, and personnel management to maintain an efficient and motivated workforce.
• Support program teams in planning, executing, and evaluating projects, ensuring they are completed on time and within scope and budget.
• Coordinate resources and logistics to support program activities and events.
• Assist in setting project timelines, milestones and deliverables to align projects with organizational goals.
• Develop and implement risk management policies to protect assets, staff, and reputation.
• Ensure compliance with relevant laws, regulations, and organizational policies.
• Conduct regular reviews and audits of operational procedures to identify and mitigate risks.
• Oversee administrative and human resources functions to support smooth day-to-day operations.
• Manage organizational contracts, insurance, and vendor relationships.
• Maintain organized records for financial and operational documents.
• Assist in organizing board meetings and preparing relevant financial reports and materials for review.

       Qualifications and Skills

• A bachelor’s degree in finance, accounting, business administration, or a related field, as well as a CPA or similar certification, is an added advantage.
• 3 to 5 years post-qualification experience in finance, accounting, or operations roles, preferably in the non-profit sector.
• Proficiency in accounting software and MS Office suite, especially Excel.
• Strong knowledge of financial requirements and compliance requirements.
• Knowledge of financial and tax regulations.
• Strong understanding of non-profit accounting principles and practices.
• Experience with grant management and donor reporting.
• Experience in budgeting, forecasting and financial planning.
• Experience in managing audits and working with external auditors.
• Experience in developing and implementing financial policies.
• Proven track record of managing financial risks.
• Honesty, integrity and strong ethics.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy
• Strong organisational and time management skills
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• Ability to communicate complex financial information clearly to non-financial personnel.
• Ability to multitask and work under pressure ·
• Ability to work independently and as part of the team ·
• Ability to handle confidential information with integrity. ·
• Ability to mentor and develop finance staff · Commitment to the mission of DIGNITY Kwanza.